A student from Lower Templestowe in Victoria has been awarded the Sir Reginald Ansett Scholarship for Aviation at Swinburne University.
The scholarship, which was established to honour the legacy of aviation pioneer Sir Reginald Ansett, was awarded to Samuel Ibrahim, and is worth $30,000 over three years of study for the a student undertaking a Bachelor of Aviation.
“I joined the Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) when I was in Year 8 and since then, learning to fly and being a pilot has been my goal,” Ibrahim said in a statement. “I really enjoy passing on my knowledge and preparing the younger cadets for flying courses. It’s been great to have the opportunity take on a leadership role.”
Ibrahim completed work experience in Year 10 with a flying school at Moorabbin Airport and has gone on to take lessons. “I completed my first solo flight in May,” he said. “It was fun, but I was pretty nervous as I realised it’s all about you and the decisions you make. You can’t rely on your instructor. You have to determine the next step when you’re up in the air.”
The scholarship is administered by Equity Trustees Limited, through its role as trustee of the R.M. Ansett Trust, and is awarded to students undertaking the Swinburne University aviation degree who have outstanding academic achievements, show real aptitude for aviation, and can demonstrate financial need.
The R.M. Ansett Trust was established under Sir Reginald’s will with the aim of “helping children to take their place in life”. The Ansett Trust distributes over $1 million annually through social equity scholarships at secondary and tertiary schools, and grants to charities supporting children In Victoria.
